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Amorim's tenure at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a notable disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his record is remarkable for all the poor causes. During the Premier League era, no boss at the club has achieved a worse points return, nor managed a league finish as disappointing as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a larger share of matches. Furthermore, he infamously etched his name in the team's history by experiencing a loss in a final to Spurs, particularly the current side of Tottenham.

The game, but, is seldom so black and white. In spite of the criticism of his favored system, he departs from a team in a significantly improved condition than that which he took over. Earlier this season, following a win against Brighton, Danny Welbeck shared that teammates were lauding United as the best side they had encountered in a long time. Their football in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was both hopeful and exhilarating.

While it is difficult to dispute the termination—particularly given it was allegedly caused by his criticism of superiors with poorer track records—his exit was ultimately hampered by terrible luck. If the absence of key personnel not coincided with the loss of other important members, he could remain in the role—possibly thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

As a result, Fletcher steps into a relatively stable situation. Star players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly return from the African tournament. Merely sensible husbandry of this gifted roster should be adequate to ensure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental football for next season—in all likelihood in the elite UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Task

The home side, though, won't be a pushover. Although boasting only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their previous five outings, their performances have at times been better than the scorelines indicate. Manager Scott Parker will certainly have his team fired up to attack United who are expected to start an XI that has lacked cohesion, set up in a system they have not used for more than a year.

Kick-off: 8.15pm GMT.